Parkinson is eyeing ‘seven or eight’ new additions to Cats squad

Phil Parkinson has confirmed that Sunderland are ‘close’ to clinching a deal for an unnamed player – as he targets a minimum of seven summer signings.

The Sunderland boss was appearing on BBC Newcastle’s Total Sport where he was quizzed on the current situation regarding transfers.

And while there remains a great deal of uncertainty around football – not least the prospect of hard salary caps coming into play into League One next season – Parkinson has confirmed that he feels the club are ‘close’ to making a breakthrough in the market.

Only a handful of third tier sides have already clinched incoming deals, but many are set for a busy summer after releasing a host of players.

That’s no different at Sunderland, with Parkinson admitting he is eyeing ‘seven or eight’ new additions over the coming months. “That’s about what we’ re looking to bring in ,” said the Black Cats boss.

“Flanagan has got a contract offer and we’re in negotiations and there’s another player who I feel we’re close to getting a deal done with. After that, it’ s just like every summer. It’ s about being patient and getting the best players available for the budget.

“That’s what we’re trying to do – cover all scenarios and get the right players in to be really strong.”

Parkinson’s update comes on the same day that Bristol City announced that Bailey Wright was now officially a free agent – with Sunderland known to be targeting the centre back this summer.

The Black Cats are also waiting on an answer from centre back Tom Flanagan, who was offered a new deal in June. Park in son, though, is hopeful that a deal could be finalised in the near future.

“I think we're not too far away with Flanno,” he said.

“Over the next few days we’ve got to progress that one and try and push it over the line so all parties know where we stand.

“Flanno is a good lad, he’s been reasonable and we need to try and get that deal progressed sooner rather than later.”

Meanwhile, Swindon Town are set to make an offer for Rotherham United striker Jerry Yates – who has been heavily-linked with a move to Sunderland.

The striker netted 14 times during a loan spell with Swindon last season, and is reportedly being eyed by the Black Cats and Blackpool this summer after an impressive 2019/20 campaign.